Violent fan hits goalkeeper with BIN as referee abandons bitter derby game after mass pitch invasion in Melbourne
THE MELBOURNE A-League derby was abandoned after fans stormed the pitch and attacked a goalkeeper with a metal bin in chaotic scenes.
Melbourne City were leading rivals Victory 1-0 after 21 minutes when a flare was thrown on to the pitch from behind one of the goals.
Fans then stormed on as security and the referee tried to protect City goalkeeper Tom Glover.
However, the metal bucket was launched at the stopper, causing him to bleed from the face.
Substitutes also ran towards the disgraceful flashpoint to help out their team-mate.
The referee and players were ushered towards to the AAMI Park tunnel for their safety.
Tension was building in the week leading up to the derby match in Melbourne following the A-League’s call to stage the next three grand finals in Sydney.
Since 2005, clubs have earned the right to host the grand final based on performances but a £5.5million deal was agreed between league chiefs and New South Wales state, prompting a furious backlash.
A 20th-minute walkout protest was planned but the scenes descended into anarchy as so-called supporters burst on to the field of play.
Glover, 24, needed treatment in the dressing room due to the cut – as City confirmed he may have suffered a concussion.
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